"Half" shifting -- what and why?

[OakLeaf]

I think maybe this is one of those triple vs. compact things. Although since I've only ever ridden with a compact double once, when I'd just returned to road cycling, I don't actually know. (I'll still defend my triple to the death, though, especially now that I've put on shorter gearing on my cassette. )

I've got R700 shifters (short reach Ultegra grade shifters) and a triple, my hands aren't super small but small enough to need those shifters, and it's pretty much as far as I can reach to upshift the FD. I do have to be careful I don't inadvertently steer while shifting.

Downshifting is easier, so it probably has more to do with the amount of tension I'm exerting on the cable, than the actual distance of travel.

It's a 105 FD though. Maybe Ultegra would be easier (do they make those for triples?)